The technology of converting light into electricity

The group of scientists has created a vertical double-sided photovoltaic module (PV) that has the ability to convert light into electricity. The innovative technology, which is the basis of these modules, can provide with electricity 4,900 four-room residential apartments. Scientists have already planned to install such panels all over Singapore.

Renewable energy sources are the fastest growing energy sector in the world. The use of such alternative energy sources is one of the priority directions of the development of the energy industry of different countries, due to a number of factors such as the pollution of the environment and the limitation of energy resources.

Dr Khoo Yong Sheng, the head of PV Modules Development Group noted that the natural gas is 95% of the main energy source for Singapore’s power industry. He also mentioned that the less dependence on fossil fuel can make Singapore energy-independent. The sound barriers are established along areas of aboveground tracks to reduce noise pollution near residential places. Dr. Khoo and the scientific group mentioned that appropriate vertical PV modules on sound barriers, which are about 36km, will create PV panels that can provide 25 MWp of electricity. These panels will produce electric energy that will be enough to power up to 4,900 four-room residential houses for the duration of the system life, that is about can 30 years.

During the PV module technology producing were used an innovational digital ceramic printing technology. The research results of the vertically installed double-sided PV module, that is capable to transform light into electricity from both sides, demonstrated that they got at 15 % more solar irradiation compared to a usual installed single-sided module. PV modules can be manufactured in different sizes. They have a detailed optical measurement on separate module components such as glass panes and encapsulants. Furthermore, this technology can provide cell-to-module power loss analyses and advanced electroluminescence analyses of PV modules.

The PV modules, which are used as a barrier, can be designed as transparent or enhanced constructions in order to provide passengers with an unobstructed and esthetical view.